INNOVATION UPDATES
Innovation Updates at a Glance
Issue #2
What started as a pilot with only one device less than a year ago, the Obie has become a linchpin of quality time for residents and their families, not merely serving as a medium for leisure, but also a gateway to an immersive virtual playground. With its wide range of interactive games and activities, it's a not-so-hidden gem that incites cognitive engagement, motion, and social bonds. In the era where technology is finally catching up to the needs of older adults, devices like the Obie projector are transforming how we perceive and engage in play at any age.
Cyrelle Muskat, in her capacity as the Director of Quality, Systems and Wellness, and known for her exceptional innovative contributions, spearheaded the incorporation of an Obie pilot project at in the Apotex, an initiative facilitated by BIO. The installation of Obie has subsequently resulted in noteworthy success. Engagement metrics demonstrate that over 94 percent of the home's residents have been active participants in Obie games. Furthermore, staff observations confirm a noticeable improvement in resident mood following their interactions with this new technology.
“When observing the residents playing games using the Obie projector, the expression of glee on their faces is truly pleasing,” says Sabina Ntim, a Baycrest recreationist. “The projector challenges the residents’ problem-solving skills and tests their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, while also effectively targeting their memorization abilities. After the initial trial period, Baycrest was able to purchase the Obie technology, thanks to the generosity of community donors Rhona Day and Bryan Kerdman. To date, three projectors have been installed into Baycrest’s long-term care home, the Apotex Centre, Jewish Home for the Aged.
To learn more about the Obie projector, or to schedule a demo, email us at innovation@baycrest.org.
Over the past year, our innovative virtual reality (VR) program has experienced remarkable growth and recognition. We have successfully facilitated 1,178 VR sessions in the Apotex, 857 sessions in the PCU, and an impressive 1,485 sessions at Baycrest Hospital. Our dedicated team has trained approximately 10 volunteers to support VR across the Apotex and Hospital, further strengthening our program. To accommodate the increasing demand for VR, we have also invested in two additional VR systems with upgraded hardware, expanding our reach to additional groups such as the Terraces Memory Care floor.
Our efforts have not gone unnoticed, as we had the opportunity to present at the BSOT Rounds on June 23, 2022, with BIO as a co-presenter. Additionally, our impact on responsive behaviors was highlighted in the Spring 2023 issue of Brain Matters. We are thrilled to announce that we have secured 2023 CABHI SPARK funding to pursue a formal study of using VR as a non-pharmacological leisure intervention for responsive behaviors. The success of our program has attracted the attention of other organizations and facilities, such as Bayshore, UHN Toronto Rehab, and Mon Sheong DC, who are now interested in piloting or implementing VR in their own facilities. We are currently discussing support for a pilot project with Digital Health at Bayshore, solidifying our position as a leader in this transformative field.
Baycrest is committed to providing the best possible care for its residents. To do this, we've developed the Possibilities by Baycrest™ Innovation Pathway, a tool that helps staff choose and use the right technology for each person's unique needs. This approach ensures that each resident receive care that is tailored to their individual circumstances, resulting in better outcomes and a more positive experience overall. BIO has supported Baycrest staff by providing training, guidance, and troubleshooting.
BIO also supports staff and works with the tech vendors to monitor the use of the technology and assess its impact on the resident's care. If necessary, adjustments are made to the technology or the way it is being used, to ensure that the resident's needs are being met as effectively as possible. To further support our staff, BIO devised strategic workflows that encompass a range of resources and initiatives. Staff can now access Get To Know Me Tool online via RedCap, participate in monthly data reviews and training sessions, and utilize digital resources.
The Home Society's generous donation has enabled Baycrest to implement five innovative projects, designed to improve the lives of our residents in unique and meaningful ways. From state-of-the-art musical devices, to individualized playlists and cutting-edge gardening technology, these projects are making a real difference in the lives of seniors.
Home Society Innovation Projects At a Glance:
Soundbeam – This touch-free musical instrument allows older adults to express themselves musically through movement. The device uses sensors to translate body movements into sound, providing a unique and interactive musical experience for older of all physical abilities.
Otoscan – This 3D ear scanning technology creates an accurate digital impression of the ear, eliminating the need for silicone putty impressions.
Motitech – Hailed as the “peloton for seniors”, older adults can pedal on stationary bikes while watching immersive videos of scenic routes from around the world.
Claris Tablets for Baycrest@Home - Clients in Baycrest Hospital's 7 West wing will be onboarded to Baycrest@Home using senior-friendly tablets.
Apotex TBSU Package of Solutions - A variety of innovative technologies for the Transitional Behavioural Support Unit (TBSU). Includes Click n' Grow smart gardens, Magic Touch interactive tiles, SensoryOne Interactive Tiles, and Amazon Echo dots.
Hearing is essential to brain health and healthy aging. Recent studies indicate that untreated hearing loss is a leading risk factor for dementia that may be preventable with timely hearing health care. To ensure timely access to information about hearing health, BIO supported the launch of an online hearing screening tool that helps to detect hearing loss. Users have instant access to their results that let's them know if they may have hearing loss, and those who want to know more can connect with a Baycrest Audiologist for a complimentary 15-minute chat.
This initiative has already attracted approximately 1000 users who have completed the screening tool, with 64 of them requesting a consultation with an Audiologist. The overwhelmingly positive response to the pilot is reflected in its impressive 95% net promoter score, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to providing accessible and high-quality services to our community.
Click here to learn more or to access the hearing screening tool.
The BRAINWAVES: Innovations in Aging Conference & Expo, taking place November 7-8, is a platform for innovators, thought leaders and community members to connect and explore the future of healthy aging. Attendees will gain knowledge of groundbreaking projects and programs, experience cutting-edge technologies, and hear from dynamic speakers.
The two-day event comprises of:
For more information about the Brainwaves: Innovations in Aging Conference & Expo or to get involved, contact innovation@baycrest.org.
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